Question 1

If I sit an IELTS test in my home country, will I get a better result?

Accepted Answer

This is a common myth. It is important to understand that the IELTS test is delivered in the same way all over the world and will be the same level of difficulty wherever you sit the test. Think about where you will feel most confident taking the test, and this may well be in your home country. Keep in mind that all IELTS examiners in each country receive the same high level of training and are closely monitored to ensure they rate your responses consistently wherever you sit the test.

Question 2

Do I have to speak with a particular accent in my IELTS Speaking test?

Accepted Answer

Everyone speaks with an accent and you are not expected to change your accent for the IELTS test. Instead, focus on speaking clearly and at a natural pace so that the examiner can understand you. Practising your English every day and listening to different native speaker accents will help you to more clearly pronounce difficult words.

Question 3

Will I get more marks if I write more than the word limit In Writing?

Accepted Answer

The minimum word limit is important and you must write at least 150 words for Writing Task 1 and at least 250 words for Writing Task 2.
If you write less than this, you will have fewer ideas and may lose marks. However if you write much more, this does not mean you will gain marks. It is more important that you use correct English, appropriate grammar, and a wide range of vocabulary and sentence structures.

Question 4

Will I lose marks if my opinions differ to that of the examiner?

Accepted Answer

In your Writing and Speaking tests, there are no right or wrong opinions. The examiner is assessing how well you can use your English to report information and express ideas.

Question 5

Will I get a better band score, if I keep practising sample tests?

Accepted Answer

Practising sample tests will help you learn what is expected in each part of the test and is good test preparation in order to maximise the English skills you have. However, remember that to improve your English you need to use English in everyday contexts – speak English with your friends, write notes and email in English, read English newspapers, listen to English radio.
If you feel you need help with your English, you should also consider taking an English course.

Question 6

Is IELTS harder than other English tests?

Accepted Answer

Thousands of educational institutions, employers and professional registration bodies accept IELTS because it is a high quality and fair test. This is why IELTS is also accepted by more governments for migration purposes than any other test. The institution/organisation to which you are applying will determine the level of English you need.

Question 7

Be aware of scams offering false IELTS information and Test Report Forms

Accepted Answer

You might hear all sorts of claims about the IELTS test. Be wary about believing what you read on the internet, as there is a lot of misinformation about the test. You must also be aware of scams offering IELTS information or false Test Report Forms. Instead of listening to these false claims about the test, the best thing you could do is to concentrate on improving your English proficiency and follow the preparation advice we provide on this website.

Question 8

Can I make the examiner laugh in my Speaking test and get a higher mark?

Accepted Answer

Smiling can help you feel relaxed which in turn might help you perform better. However, if you smile or laugh too much, it might not be appropriate for the topic you are discussing. Every examiner is trained and monitored closely to be fair to every candidate and to assess your level of English. The examiners will not give you more or fewer marks if you are smiling and laughing. It is best to try and relax as much as you can and communicate in a natural way.

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